By Marina Case
For those of us who believe homes should tell the stories of their owners, there’s no better way to add personality to a space than by incorporating vintage finds. Each piece—whether it’s a patinaed side table, a chinoiserie ceramic lamp, or a gilded mirror—adds texture, warmth, and depth, making the home truly as unique as those who live within it. As an interior designer, I’ve always believed that thoughtfully placed antiques create a more inviting atmosphere by evoking a sense of history so that the space feels personal and timeless, something that newer pieces simply cannot achieve on their own.
That belief has guided me throughout my design work, especially when sourcing pieces that reflect my clients’ sensibilities and feel one-of-a-kind. My favorite hunting ground? The Hudson Valley. Its charming towns, which are rich in history, are an antique lover’s dream. From boutique shops to sprawling multi-dealer centers, there’s spectacular finds tucked around every corner to help my client’s homes look layered and lived-in.
And apparently, I’m not the only one enchanted by the antique shops in this region. I was recently featured in an article in Hudson Valley Magazine titled Everything You Need to Know About Antique Shopping in the Hudson Valley. This felt like such a full-circle moment given how I incorporate antiques to elevate my client’s spaces.
My Go-To Shops
In celebration of that feature, I’m highlighting a few of my tried and true antique shops in the Hudson Valley. These are the places I return to again and again, whether I’m working on a project or simply looking for a little inspiration.
1. Red Chair on Warren – Hudson, NY
Red Chair is a beautifully curated shop tucked into the heart of Hudson’s antique district that specializes in Swedish, Belgian, and French antiques. The owner has impeccable taste, culling the perfect treasures. I’ve found some of my favorite tabletop items here—each one adding a quiet sense of history and charm to my interiors.
2. Newburgh Vintage Emporium – Newburgh, NY
As I mentioned in the article, this is one of those “you never know what you’ll find” locations. It’s a consistent Winner Best Antique Shop, Hudson Valley Magazine – and for good reason. With over 45 vendors and 11,000 square feet of shopping, it has a fabulous eclectic selection of items.
3. Hyde Park Antiques – Hyde Park, NY
This local gem of a shop, which houses many different vendors, offers a fabulous eclectic selection of vintage pieces. I love to hunt here for English and chinoiserie finds. It’s a must-stop when I’m working on projects with a focused feel for timeless elegance.
4. Millerton Antiques Center – Millerton, NY
A multi-dealer antique center, Millerton is one of my favorite places to spend an afternoon. The inventory is diverse, offering a range of fun decorative items I’m drawn to like pillows, art, and tabletop objects. With so many corners to explore, you’re bound to find something that speaks to you.
5. Beekman Arms Antique Market – Rhinebeck, NY
Located behind the historic Beekman Arms Inn, this antique market is a Rhinebeck institution. With over 30 dealers in a classic two-story barn, there’s a lot to pick from. I can always count on finding high-quality art, tabletop items, and small pieces of furniture to add character to my projects. And I absolutely love their vintage clothing!
6. Hudson Valley House Parts – Newburgh, NY
If you love architecture, you have to visit Hudson Valley House Parts. This place is a goldmine for old doors, lighting, hardware, mantels, and one-of-a-kind architectural elements that can truly transform a space. I recently purchased an attractive fire screen for a client there that perfectly fit with my design vision.
These are the shops where I find amazing pieces that tell stories. Whether I’m looking for something specific or letting myself be inspired, I always walk away with new ideas and treasures. That’s the beauty of antiquing in the Hudson Valley: you never know what you’ll find, but you can trust that it will be fantastic.
Top 3 Tips When Antique Hunting
1. Go with a goal—but stay open to the journey.
Start with a clear idea of what you’re looking for, whether it’s a specific item (like a vintage mirror or a mid-century modern lamp) or a design element (such as brass finishes or Art Deco lines). That said, be open to unexpected finds—some of the best treasures I’ve found were when I wasn’t searching too hard. Enjoy the hunt, but don’t lose sight of your overall shopping goals.
2. Always make an offer if you fall in love with something.
In antique stores, prices are often negotiable. If you find something that truly speaks to you, ask if there’s room on the price. Polite, respectful negotiation is the norm in many vintage markets.
3. Pace yourself—don’t try to cover too much in one day.
So I don’t burnout, I make a plan and take breaks to recharge – there are so many wonderful places to grab a bite to eat or enjoy a cup of tea. A slower, more thoughtful approach will help you spot hidden gems and make better decisions.
Happy hunting!
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